Grizzly bear deaths on par with past years

Laramie, WY – So far this year officials have documented ten grizzly bear deaths in the Yellowstone Ecosystem. That is about the same number as past years. One other grizzly death is suspected. Of the 11 deaths, humans caused eight. The count was seven at this time last year and 13 at this point in 2008. Biologists keep close track of grizzly bear deaths because the Yellowstone population is classified as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Researchers consider the deaths of adult female grizzlies to be particularly important for the species. Two adult females have died this year, compared to one at this time last year. Wildlife Biologist Mark Haroldson with the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team says the number of female deaths is not a worry so far.